TICKETS to one of Dorset's most prestigious business events are starting to sell fast.

Entries are now closed and the finalists have been announced for the Dorset Business Awards 2018.

Organisers of the competition, Dorset Chamber, as well as sponsors are urging businesses to act quickly if they wish to witness the glittering 2018 celebrations.

In association with the Daily Echo and Dorset Echo, and backed by Wave 105, the Dorset Business Awards Gala Dinner will be staged at the Bournemouth International Centre on Thursday November 1, enabling up to 700 of the region's business people, dignitaries and press to enjoy the county’s largest and most prestigious business event. Thirteen Dorset companies will be put into the spotlight and presented with an Award.

Back by popular demand, the breakfast team of the south’s leading radio station Wave 105 will be hosting the Awards for the second year running. Before the audience is entertained by the Wave 105 team, there will be an opportunity to enjoy a drinks reception courtesy of Caterpillar Marine Power UK Ltd and on guests’ arrival vehicles will be on display from the Westover Group, the Awards auto partner.

Andrew Goldspink, general manager of Caterpillar Marine Power UK Ltd, said: “Since opening our new world class manufacturing facility in 2017, we have continued to contribute to the local business and charity community by the development and involvement of our Dorset based team. As we mark 50 years of manufacturing marine engines in Dorset, the awards were seen as an ideal opportunity to reintroduce the business to other local companies and individuals. We are very much looking forward to the awards evening.”

For the fourth consecutive year, Brighter Productions will be returning as production sponsor to create a spectacular ceremony based on the Dorset Business Award theme of ‘together we succeed’.

Sean Tomkins, commercial director at Brighter Productions said: “We are delighted to be production sponsor for the Dorset Business Awards for the fourth year running, the Brighter Team get a great deal of pleasure from working on this event and enjoy celebrating the successes of the best of the region’s talented businesses and individuals.”

Stuart Dixon, head of marketing communications at Dorset Chamber, said: “The gala dinner tickets have been specially designed by our brand communications partner, the Global Group, and are the most sought-after tickets in the business community, and if you are planning to attend it’s time to act fast!”

He added: “Every year the awards grow in stature, showcasing the business skills, enthusiasm and dedication of owners, managers, and staff - the people who are the driving force behind the Dorset economy. The glittering ceremony will be the pinnacle of the 2018 search to find the companies and business leaders that have most made their mark on Dorset.”

BH Live Hospitality will be creating a three-course gala dinner menu for guests to enjoy. To purchase tickets for the Awards Gala Dinner, please visit www.dorsetbusinessawards.co.uk or contact the Dorset Chamber on 01202 714810 or dba@dcci.co.uk.